外刊阅读20250202｜这波关税可能让中国货彻底出局…

We lose measurable cognitive skills, and we also lose the pleasure of using our hands and a writing implement in a process that for thousands of years has allowed humans to make our thoughts visible to one another.

我们不仅失去了可衡量的认知能力，还失去了一种过程中的乐趣，这是数千年来，我们用双手和书写工具让人们将思想得以传递的过程。

词数：344 words

难度：★★★☆☆

The relationship between tariffs and inflation is a complex one that impacts prices, consumers, and the broader economy in various ways. Tariffs, often used as a tool to protect domestic industries, can have both inflationary and deflationary effects. Understanding these dynamics is essential as political leaders, such as Donald Trump, propose sweeping tariffs aimed at reshaping the U.S. economy.

One potential benefit of tariffs is the protection of domestic industries. By imposing tariffs on imports, the government can reduce foreign competition, encouraging American companies to produce more domestically. This approach may benefit sectors like steel, aluminum, and agriculture, which often struggle against cheaper imports. When domestic production increases, it can contribute to economic stability by preserving jobs and supporting local industries.

Moreover, tariffs can act as a strategic economic tool. Some experts argue that, in specific cases, tariffs might lead to lower inflation by strengthening domestic supply chains. For example, tariffs on critical goods like technology components could encourage companies to invest in U.S. production facilities, potentially reducing dependency on volatile global markets. This approach, if successful, could help stabilize prices in the long run.

While there are arguments in favor of tariffs, they often result in increased costs for consumers, which can drive up inflation. When tariffs are applied, importers face higher costs that they usually pass on to consumers in the form of price increases. Everyday items like electronics, clothing, and food may become more expensive, as businesses attempt to recover these additional expenses. This rise in prices contributes directly to inflation.

Moreover, tariffs can lead to a reduced supply of foreign goods, which limits consumer choice and drives domestic producers to raise their prices without foreign competition to keep them in check . If Trump’s tariffs were applied to additional sectors, the resulting price increases could trigger a surge in inflation. The Federal Reserve may respond by raising interest rates, which could have a cooling effect on economic growth. However, such rate hikes often make borrowing more expensive for consumers and businesses, potentially slowing down consumer spending and investment.